Tom Drescher steps down as Tam High principal

Tamalpais High School Principal Tom Drescher has stepped down mid-year to handle what he said is a change to his family situation.

Drescher, 40, was hired as an assistant principal at the Mill Valley high school in 2007 after eight years as an administrator in California and New York state, and he was appointed principal a year later.

Last fall, he announced he would be leaving at the end of the school year but circumstances have changed, he said.

"I resigned my position last fall anticipating my need to deal with an ongoing family situation," he said in an email. "The mid-year leave was prompted by a significant change to my personal family situation."

Drescher announced his departure in an message addressed to the "Tam Family."

"It has been an honor to be a part of The Tam Family the past six years during which time I had the privilege of working with an outstanding group of teachers, administrators, and staff who possess deep commitments to supporting the learning of all students," he said in the message. "I am very fortunate to have served an amazing school community who has consistently supported my work to improve the quality of education offered to our students."

Drescher has been replaced by Bob Vieth, who took over as interim principal Feb. 4. Vieth was principal at San Marin High School in Novato until he retired in 2011.

Vieth has 19 years as a public school principal, including 11 at the high school level.

He will remain at Tam through the end of the school year as the district searches for a replacement, Tamalpais Union High School District Superintendent Laurie Kimbrel said.

"Thank you for your patience during this transition," Kimbrel said in an email to staff. "Tam High School is truly a special place for our teachers, students, and community, and we look forward to a bright future with new leadership."